Sri Lanka Cricket's Fitness Tests Impact IPL Participation

Sri Lanka Cricket has revealed that several centrally contracted players, including Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana, have not completed mandatory fitness tests, raising concerns about their participation in IPL 2026. With only 24 out of 45 players passing the tests, SLC emphasizes that an NOC for IPL participation will only be granted to those who meet the fitness standards. As the IPL approaches, the status of these players remains uncertain, particularly with Hasaranga's hamstring injury and Pathirana's recent calf strain. The fitness tests are part of SLC's broader initiative to enhance player performance ahead of international commitments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 6, 2026, 23:11 IST

Fitness Tests for Centrally Contracted Players

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced that Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana are among 15 players who have not yet completed the required fitness assessments. Additionally, six other players have not passed at least one of their attempts. Currently, only 24 out of the 45 centrally contracted players have successfully cleared the fitness tests.

Concerns Over IPL Participation

The reasons for the delay in fitness testing include injuries and logistical issues. Hasaranga and Pathirana's fitness is particularly crucial as they are set to represent Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Hasaranga is currently dealing with a left hamstring injury and has not yet sought a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Meanwhile, Pathirana, who sustained a calf strain during the T20 World Cup 2026, has resumed bowling in the nets.

Reports suggest that Pathirana could potentially join the IPL in India by mid-April. Although a specific date for his fitness test mandated by SLC has not been confirmed, it is anticipated to occur within the next week.

SLC's Fitness Test Requirements for IPL

In preparation for IPL 2026, SLC has stated that players wishing to participate must pass the mandatory Physical Performance Test to receive an NOC. A statement from SLC emphasized, "Players who have requested to participate in the IPL will only be issued an NOC upon successfully passing SLC's mandatory Physical Performance Test."

Currently, SLC is implementing an eight-week specialized physical training program for all nationally contracted players to improve their physical performance ahead of upcoming international competitions. This program includes mandatory physical performance tests to assess player fitness.

Players who meet the established standards will be eligible for domestic tournaments and will receive an NOC for IPL participation. SLC reiterated, "Only those who successfully meet the required standards of the physical performance tests will be cleared to participate in the ongoing domestic tournament and granted an NOC for IPL 2026."